Harmonized Tariff Schedule

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How to Classify Products That Come in Sets under General Rule of Interpretation 3b

Sets (or kits, for the general public), represent a unique tariff classification challenge.  This is because they generally do not have an easily identifiable identity other than “just a box of stuff we sell to rebuild a motor” or make a meal (see below). If you’ve ever tried to assign an HTS code to a […]

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HTS Classification Audits: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Navigating the labyrinth of Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification is no small feat. And when the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) knocks on your door for an audit, it’s not exactly a friendly visit.  But before you start hiding under your desk or shredding paperwork (don’t do that), let’s break down what to expect

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When You Need to Understand the “Why” Behind a Tariff Heading

Explanatory Notes: The Classification Resource You’re Probably Not Using There’s a reason some tariff classifications seem to defy logic. You’re staring at the HTS description, the Chapter Notes look right, and yet something doesn’t add up. The duty rate is higher than you expected, or worse, you’re facing a challenge from CBP. That missing piece

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Close up of tiles that spell FTA with a backdrop of cargo containers

FTA Summaries, Preference Programs, and the Fine Print That Saves You Money

General Notes in the HTSUS: What They Are and Why They Matter Most importers flip straight to the tariff code. A few get as far as the chapter notes. But almost nobody starts in the General Notes of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), where the real money-saving opportunities live. Tucked neatly

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Customs documents being reviewed and stamped at a border checkpoint

Why HTS Classification Requires More Than Just a Code Search

The Notes Nobody Reads (But Everyone Should) If you’re relying on a keyword search or a code look-up tool to classify your imports, you’re playing a risky game. HTS classification isn’t just about matching a description, it’s about following a legal framework built on layers of fine print that most people never bother to read.

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Picture of $100 bill with tariff rates climbing.

How to Determine If Your Product Qualifies for Lower Tariffs

Duty rates aren’t set in stone. They’re set in law. Like most legal frameworks, they come with nuance, exceptions, and opportunities. Understanding how those rates are calculated (and how they can be lowered) is less about beating the system and more about understanding it better than the next importer. If your duty rates seem higher

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A child's toy showing a square peg over a round hole.

Tariff Engineering: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and How to Do It Right

Tariff engineering is a term that often sparks confusion and, occasionally, suspicion. Some assume it’s a loophole. Others assume it’s illegal. Neither is accurate. When done correctly, tariff engineering is a lawful, strategic method of designing products to fit within more favorable tariff classifications. When done incorrectly, it’s a fast track to compliance violations, audits,

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Wooden blocks spelling TARIFFS are placed on a map of North America

What Is the Difference Between a Tariff and a Duty?

A timely clarification for when trade policy decides to keep importers on their toes. With blanket tariffs making headlines again and compliance officers reaching for the antacids, there’s no shortage of confusion about trade terminology. One of the most common questions we hear, especially in light of the Trump-era tariffs being revisited, is this: What’s

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Stressed out man reviewing HTS Codes

Five Signs Your Customs Broker Is Getting Your HTS Codes Wrong

Customs brokers play an essential role in international trade. They process entries, deal with forms most people never want to read, and help keep your goods moving. But as any seasoned importer will tell you: not all brokers are created equal – and not all of them get your HTS classification right. While it’s tempting

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